Dunhill: Shell Briar (4934) (2025) Tobacco Pipe

Dunhill's classic "34" Brandy is presented here in compact Nosewarmer size, with a noticeably shortened shank-and-stem arrangement, indicated by the "9" in the shape code. Despite its abbreviated length — measuring just under four inches — the bowl is presented in Group 4 size, and it houses an appropriately deep chamber. The refined composition is handsomely presented in the English firm's Shell Briar finish, which highlights rugged grain across the stummel.

The Shell Briar's addition to the Dunhill catalog was a pivotal moment in pipe-smoking history. Before 1917, pipes with sandblasted finishes had never been made, and Alfred Dunhill's innovative mind created arguably the most popular finish for pipes today when he unveiled the Shell Briar. With its dark, reserved color palette and delightful texture, it's no surprise that it's still wildly popular over a century later.